Pronunciation: [fˈiːld vˈə͡ʊl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "field vole" can be easily explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "field," is pronounced as /fiːld/ with a long "ee" sound and the final "d" is pronounced. The second word, "vole," is pronounced as /voʊl/ with a long "o" sound and a silent "e" at the end. With the help of the IPA notation, it becomes clear that "field vole" is spelled the way it is pronounced.
A field vole, scientifically known as Microtus agrestis, is a small and widely distributed rodent species belonging to the family Cricetidae. This burrowing mammal is predominantly found in grassy areas, fields, meadows, and open habitats across Europe and parts of Asia. It has a stout body with a short tail, measuring approximately 3 to 4 inches in length, and displays a varying range of fur colors including brown, gray, or reddish-brown hues.
Field voles are herbivorous creatures, primarily subsisting on a diet of grasses, roots, seeds, and other forms of vegetation. They are known to create an intricate network of tunnels and burrows within their habitat, enabling them to navigate and establish their territories underground. As predominantly solitary animals, field voles are generally territorial and exhibit little social interaction with conspecifics.
Due to their rapid reproductive capabilities and relatively short lifespan, field voles are characterized by a large population density in certain areas during specific periods. They are not considered to be a threatened species, despite being targeted by predators such as owls, foxes, and other carnivorous mammals.
Overall, field voles play an essential role within their ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycles through their foraging and feeding habits. Their presence also influences the plant community structure and helps in maintaining the overall biodiversity of grasslands and meadows.
The etymology of the word "field vole" can be traced to the individual roots of the term.
1. Field: The word "field" comes from the Old English word "feld", which itself can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "felthuz". "Felthuz" referred to an open piece of land, specifically an open, cultivated area.
2. Vole: The word "vole" derives from the Old Norse word "vǫlr", which meant "vole" or "field-mouse". The Old Norse term "vǫlr" is related to the Old English word "fela", meaning "fur" or "skin", which can be associated with the dense fur covering voles have.
Therefore, when combined, the term "field vole" refers to a small rodent commonly found in open, cultivated areas.
